78992-5

LOINC 2.82

Melatonin [Mass/volume] in Saliva (oral fluid)

Melatonin Sal-mCnc

Definition

  • Melatonin assays are used to evaluate the phase position of the biological clock and alignment of an individual's circadian rhythm with a typical 24-hour sleep-wake cycle. Saliva melatonin levels are relatively unaffected by changes in posture and at any given time, the saliva concentration is approximately 30% of that in the plasma. Given that saliva sampling is noninvasive and painless, saliva provides a convenient alternative to plasma. Timed melatonin measurement is used to identify sleep-wake cycle disorders, and melatonin can also be used to determine pineal gland function and help in the diagnosis of pineal tumors. [PMID: 16761382]

Component

  • Melatonin

Specimen / system

  • Saliva

Class

  • CHEM

Property

  • MCnc

Scale

  • Qn

Related names

  • Chemistry; Level; Mass concentration; Oral fluid; Point in time; QNT; Quan; Quant; Quantitative; Random; Sal

Index terms

  • Chemistry
  • Level
  • Mass concentration
  • Oral fluid
  • Point in time
  • QNT
  • Quan
  • Quant
  • Quantitative
  • Random
  • Sal